Moving to Spain
Spain offers 6 visa pathways in 2026, including 6 routes to permanent residence. Government fees start at $80, and the fastest options are processed in as little as 1 month.
Spain has emerged as the #1 European destination for both lifestyle migrants and remote workers. The Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) suits retirees and the financially independent, the Digital Nomad Visa launched in 2023 covers remote employees and freelancers, and the Highly Qualified Professional route fast-tracks skilled hires. EU citizenship is reachable in 10 years (2 for Latin Americans, Filipinos, Sephardim, and Andorra/Equatorial Guinea/Portuguese nationals).
- ✦Digital Nomad Visa accepts remote employees with €2,849/mo income (2026)
- ✦Non-Lucrative Visa needs no job (€28,800/yr passive income for the main applicant)
- ✦EU citizenship in 2 years for Latin American, Filipino, and Sephardic applicants
- ✦Beckham Law caps tax at 24% on Spanish-source income up to €600k for 6 years for new arrivals
What digital nomad visas does Spain offer?
(2)Digital Nomad Visa
Ley de Startups (Art. 74-78)
Spain's Digital Nomad Visa lets remote employees and freelancers live in Spain while working for non-Spanish companies. Beckham-style 24% flat tax available for new residents up to €600k of Spanish-source income for 6 years.
Non-Lucrative Visa
NLV
Residency for the financially independent. No work allowed in Spain. Applicants prove €28,800/yr passive income (400% of IPREM) plus €7,200 per dependant. Renewable, leads to PR after 5 years.
What skilled worker visas does Spain offer?
(1)What entrepreneur visas does Spain offer?
(2)Entrepreneur Visa
Visado de Emprendedor
For founders launching innovative business projects with a favourable report from the Ministry of Economy (ENISA-evaluated). Designed for tech and high-potential ventures.
Self-Employed Worker Visa (Cuenta Propia)
Trabajo por Cuenta Propia
Residence permit for foreigners launching their own business or operating as a self-employed professional in Spain. Requires a viable business plan, sufficient capital, and relevant qualifications. Distinct from Spain's Digital Nomad Visa.
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2 cities in Spain, ranked
Barcelona
Mediterranean coast + walkable + growing tech (Glovo, Wallapop, EU offices of US tech). DNV-friendly.
Madrid
Spain's capital. Bigger jobs market than Barcelona. Inland, with hot summers and cold winters. Walkable, lively, cheaper.
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